Grooming a Senior Cat

Is your cat in her golden years? If so, she may need a helping hand with her beauty routine. Senior kitties often have trouble bending and stretching. This can make it hard for them to clean themselves as they grow older. Obesity can also be an issue. Plus, your cat’s skin may produce more oil as she ages, especially if she develops medical issues. You’ll need to brush Fluffy regularly to get that dead hair and dander out of her coat. In this article, a local vet offers some advice on this.

Make It Fun

Fluffy’s beauty sessions will be much more pleasant for both of you if your pet thinks she’s being pampered. Timing is very important with this. You’ll need to wait until Fluffy is feeling relaxed and cuddly. Incorporate pets, ear scritches, and treats, and talk to your pet gently in a relaxed tone of voice.

Do It Regularly

If you have a longhaired cat, you’ll likely need to brush your pet out daily. This will help keep her fur from forming mats. It can also help prevent (or at least reduce) hairballs. Plus, it’s good for her circulation.

Wipes

Does Fluffy sometimes get a dirty rump? You can use a damp washcloth or cat wipes to keep her fur clean. Ask your vet for specific care tips.

Be Gentle

Always be extremely careful when brushing a senior kitty. Fluffy may be very stiff and sore. Pulling too hard on knots can hurt her. Plus, older cats have very thin skin that can rip easily. It’s also important to choose the right gear. Wire brushes may work great on dogs with double coats, but they’re not suitable for older kitties. Use something a bit softer instead. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Know When To Get Help

If Fluffy ever gets extremely tangled or matted, you may need to bring her to a professional groomer. She may not be thrilled about going to the salon, but her safety and well-being should trump her opinion. 

Pawdicures

Your kitty’s claws will thicken as she grows older. She may also become more prone to getting caught on things. Make sure she has a good scratching post or board!

Regular Veterinary Care

Fluffy should see her vet regularly. Keep in mind that skin or coat issues can sometimes be indicative of underlying health issues. 

Please contact us, your local veterinary clinic, anytime. We are always here to help!